Vietnam

Food

The French influence in Vietnam can still be felt in the food, so expect baguettes and French pastries to abound. As well as European fare, Vietnam is known for having some of the most delicious flavors in Southeast Asia.

Banh MiThis delicious sandwich cheerfully mixes the best of French imports to Vietnam in the form of fluffy baguette, unctuous mayonnaise, pate, and a selection of charcuterie, with the best of Vietnamese foodstuffs including barbecued pork, fiery chili sauce, sour pickles, and toothsome coriander.

NemOne of the most famous Vietnamese dishes is the humble nem or spring roll. Usual fillings include minced pork or seafood like crab or shrimps, as well as vermicelli noodles, bean sprouts, and other vegetables like mushrooms and onions. The fillings are wrapped in edible rice paper and then deep fried.

PhoPho is originally a northern dish but now you will find it all over Vietnam. In its most basic form Pho is a bowl of beef broth mixed with coriander, ginger, rice noodles, spring onions, and topped with beef. Condiments like limes, chili sauce, and herbs are usually served at the table for you to add according to your own taste.

LauLau is found in many restaurants across Vietnam and although it is a soup it is usually served as a main meal rather than a starter. It is basically a steamboat (a bowl of soup over a flame or heater to keep it warm) to which you can add whatever ingredients you want. Usually you cook meat like beef or seafood like prawns in the broth, along with vegetables, noodles, and other condiments.

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Why I LOVE Vietnam

''Vietnam surprises with its diversity. Where crossing the street becomes a life adventure. Where you will enjoy the great variety of food. Where you learn from an important aspect of history. And where mountains, beaches and jungles are so near to each other that you can have them all.''